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First broadcast in 1994, Tent Show Radio is a weekly one-hour radio program showcasing the best live recordings from acclaimed music acts and entertainers who grace the Big Top Chautauqua stage each summer in beautiful Bayfield, WI. In the program's nearly 30 year history it has featured artists like Johnny Cash, B.B King, Brandi Carlile, Willie Nelson, Don McLean, and many more. Hosted by celebrated New York Times best-selling author Michael Perry-who weaves stories and humor throughout each episode - Tent Show Radio features performances from renowned national & regional artists, with regular appearances featuring Big Top’s own unique brand of shows that feature songs and stories performed by its acclaimed house band, The Blue Canvas Orchestra.

 

Tent Show Radio is independently produced by Big Top Chautauqua, a non-profit performing arts organization, with a mission to present performances and events that celebrate history and the environment - along with their annual summer concert series - nestled in the woods on the shores of Lake Superior and the Apostle Islands.

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  2. The Music of Riverpants

The Music of Riverpants

May 5, 2023

If you’re “fishing” for a good time and want to “reel” with “lunker” laughs, this knee slappin’ musical written by Warren Nelson is sure to do the trick. Energetic musical numbers, hearty fishing songs, mirthful interludes, and classic bits and skits makeup Big Top Chautauqua's musical comedy revue Riverpants. Returning to the tent in 2022 after more than a decade, stars of the Blue Canvas Orchestra delighted audiences in this beloved original production. Warren Nelson's Anglin’ Wayne guided the audience on his top fishing tips & trips, Jack Gunderson, Liz Woodworth, & Tom Mitchell shined as Midwest Folk characters Ole Lena, and Sven, and Ed Willet, Severin Behnen, Phil Anich, Otis McLennon, Betty Ferris, Randy Sabien, and Billy Knoblauch were on hand for additional hijinks and to provide the driving music behind the production.

 

First broadcast in 1994, Tent Show Radio is a weekly one-hour radio program showcasing the best live recordings from acclaimed music acts and entertainers who grace the Big Top Chautauqua stage each summer in beautiful Bayfield, WI. In the program's nearly 30-year history it has featured artists like Johnny Cash, B.B King, Brandi Carlile, Willie Nelson, Don McLean, and many more. Hosted by celebrated New York Times best-selling author Michael Perry-who weaves stories and humor throughout each episode - Tent Show Radio features performances from renowned national & regional artists, with regular appearances featuring Big Top’s own unique brand of shows that feature songs and stories performed by its acclaimed house band, The Blue Canvas Orchestra. Tent Show Radio is independently produced by Big Top Chautauqua, a non-profit performing arts organization, with a mission to present performances and events that celebrate history and the environment - along with their annual summer concert series - nestled in the woods on the shores of Lake Superior and the Apostle Islands.

EPISODE CREDITS
Michael Perry - Host
Phillip Anich - Announcer
Jaime Hansen - Engineer
Gina Nagro - Marketing Support

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FOLLOW MICHAEL PERRY
https://sneezingcow.com/
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2023 TENT SHOW RADIO SPONSORS
Ashland Area Chamber of Commerce - https://www.visitashland.com/ 
Bayfield Chamber and Visitor Bureau - https://www.bayfield.org/ 
Bayfield County Tourism - https://www.bayfieldcounty.wi.gov/150/Tourism 
The Bayfield Inn - https://bayfieldinn.com/ 
Cable Area Chamber of Commerce - https://www.cable4fun.com/ 
Washburn Area Chamber of Commerce - https://washburnchamber.com/

SPECIAL THANKS
Wisconsin Public Radio - https://www.wpr.org/